Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this delightful Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe. A hearty and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all tossed with fettuccine noodles in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce.

Why Make This Recipe

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family meal that everyone will love. It’s easy to make, comforting, and packed with delicious Italian flavors that will transport you to the sun-kissed region of Tuscany.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ¼ lbs boneless skinless chicken breast cut in bite size pieces
• 12 ounces fettuccine pasta noodles
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon dried marjoram
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 2/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil but drained and chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over low heat. Add garlic, oregano, parsley, basil, marjoram, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Increase the heat to medium-low and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer and reduce for about 8 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. While the sauce simmers, cook the fettuccine pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain well.
5. Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, cooked chicken, and pasta. Heat through and serve promptly.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Serve this delicious dish hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Tuscan Chicken Pasta

To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Tips to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
• Use fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant taste.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold up well in the creamy sauce.

Variation (If Any)

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts for additional vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes for this recipe? Yes, just rehydrate them in warm water before chopping and adding to the dish.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? Absolutely, chicken thighs can be a flavorful alternative to chicken breast in this recipe.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble the dish when ready to serve.